Overview
OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration. This branch of the United States Department of
Labor was formed in 1970. OSHA was created to ensure that the working
environment for all employees is safe and does not lead to any accidents
or illness.
How it Works
Companies must comply with OSHA regulations. They are actually bound
by law to meet the OSHA requirements for the safety and health of their
employees. A company undergoes inspections and if complaints are made by
employees against the company, steps are taken to investigate those
complaints. A company found not in compliance will be given written
notice of a time period in which they must comply or risk fines or
suspension of operation.
Benefits
Following the strict regulations of OSHA, ensures that the protection
of employees. The rules state that the worker should wear masks or
gloves while dealing with dangerous equipment. It was because of OSHA
that the moving parts of machinery were covered with guards so as to
protect fingers, hand, and legs of the people who are working with them.
The safety of the employee is ensured by the usage of respirators, ear
aids, and goggles. The OSHA sets standards that protect health care
workers from being exposed to harmful diseases. The most important
benefit of OSHA is that it works for the safety and protection of the
worker in all work places and at all times.
Costs
The basic cost would be installing all the safety equipment and
machines so that you comply with the rules and regulations of OSHA. In
case of any discrepancies, a particular time limit will be set up by
OSHA before changes have to be made. If this is not done, fines may be
imposed on the company. Further delay could prevent the company from
hiring new personnel's for work. The cost of the safety equipment
depends on the kind of facility your business is running.
Timing
The right time to set up all safety equipment will probably be before
the officials come for an inspection. On the whole, it would probably
be more cost effective if the company installs all guards and safety
equipment when the company is being set up. This not only prevents
unwanted accidents but also increases productivity because it ensures
that the workforce is safe and healthy. Since it is essential to follow
all the regulations of OSHA, it is better to do it as early as possible.
